Carmel, North County high schools join to help AP students get college credit

Teachers and students from North Monterey County and Carmel High schools are taking it to the stage to help advanced placement students earn college credit.

AP Palooza III, a concert showcasing musical acts from both schools, takes place at 7p.m. March 1 at the forum at North County High School in Castroville. Admission is $8.

The advanced placement program is for high school students who feel they are ready for the challenge of college-level courses. In addition to receiving college credit, students improve their chances of university admission when they successfully complete AP courses and the exams.

AP Palooza raises money to help families pay for the exams. It also helps forge a bond between the disparate high schools.

Four acts will perform at AP Palooza III. NC Voice and The Carmel Singer Songwriter's Guild are student groups from each high school. Far Below Basic from Carmel and Typical Prunedale Garage Band from North County are teacher bands.

The first AP Palooza raised about $6,000 and covered the costs for 35 students taking 79 tests. AP Palooza II raised $9,000 and paid for 69 students taking 141 tests. Each exam costs $80. With some students taking multiple exams at once, the price tag can be costly for some families.

"Some of these seniors take five AP classes," said Shawn Parker, the event organizer who teaches AP psychology and world history at North County. "It's there to help. Senior year has a lot of things that cost money and this is one thing we can help with."

There are currently 300 North Monterey high school students taking nine AP courses.

"The idea (for the concert) came from a need," said Parker. "For years, teachers helped kids with the fees. Kids that definitely deserve it and need it."

The Carmel Singer Songwriter's Guild has participated in each event, as has Far Below Basic.

Parker cited Carmel High School teacher Mike Deckelmann, a friend and North Monterey County Unified School District board trustee, as a big reason for the link between the schools.

"It's interesting how these two schools have come together for this event," said Parker. "It's interesting how the schools are different; socioeconomically (they're) worlds apart. We come together for this night and it's fun."

Parker has also used the event to promote local musical talent.

"In addition to raising money for the AP fees, we're trying to build a music scene at North County," said Parker. "Back when I went to school, there were bands at parties and dances. People don't do that anymore. It's all DJs."

Parker said he is looking for prize items for the event's silent auction, as well as any additional donations. Call Parker at 633-5221 ext. 303. Checks can be made out to NMCHS AP.